What is Cholera?

Cholera is an infectious disease that causes diarrhea and vomiting. You can catch cholera by eating or drinking contaminated food or water, having contact with contaminated poo or vomit, or having unprotected contact with the body of someone who has died of cholera.

If someone has cholera

Stay calm. With fast care, most people recover fully.

1. Keep them hydrated with oral rehydration solution (sachets) or a mix of 1 litre safe water, 6 teaspoons sugar and half a teaspoon of salt.
2. Seek medical care – go to your nearest health facility or call the National Hotline on 2019 soon as you see the first signs.

If cholera is circulating in your community, protect yourself and your loved ones by:

• Washing your hands regularly using soap and water, especially after touching poo (faeces) or before eating.
• Using safe water (disinfected, boiled or bottled) for drinking, washing fruit and vegetables and cooking.
• Cooking food thoroughly, keeping it covered, and eating immediately after cooking it, while it is still hot.
• Continuing to breast feed infants and young children. Breastmilk is the most nutritious food for children and the best way to protect them from illness and disease.